Dolph Lundgren: 'Nobody expected original Expendables success'

Dolph Lundgren has revealed that he never expected the original Expendables film to be a success.

The Swedish action star - who plays Gunnar in the franchise - told Den of Geek that he wasn't sure the public would embrace the all-star action film.

"I don't think anybody expected it to be that successful, really," Lundgren admitted. "I think everyone was nervous - especially Stallone, because it was his baby.

"I don't think anyone realized there were still so many fans out there for the '80s guys, you know, that wanted to see them on film. So it was a big surprise for all of us."

Lundgren also described the heightened atmosphere of shooting The Expendables with expanded parts for Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

"I think it starts with Stallone. He knows that, and he's one of them. So he writes away - he came up with the script, and he knows that this actor needs to have a certain moment, and another actor likes something else," he explained, adding: "He puts that in the script, so people feel satisfied as performers."

Lundgren continued: "Of course, on set, you've got all these guys in one little room together, and most of them are used to being the star in their picture. I mean, we're a team, me and Stallone and Jason Statham and Jet Li and the rest.

"But I can see when Arnold and Bruce show up, and Chuck Norris, they're not used to sharing a [huge] tent… getting suited up along with other guys who are stars in their own right. It's kind of interesting to watch."